Did you know Shimla was called the “Summer Capital” during British rule? Well, it was called so for a reason. We all are familiar with Shimla’s beauty, but what many tourists don’t know is that it is surrounded by many incredible hill stations which are unexplored. These hill stations near Shimla are dream locations for trek lovers and people who just want a getaway to another world for some laid-back relaxation. From picturesque beauty, snowy mountains to different looks and feels due to architecture built in the colonial era, these hill stations provide you with the best calming vacation you were looking for!
Here are ten hill stations near Shimla that’ll make your tour of Himachal Pradesh worthwhile.
1. Kiarighat:
Kiarighat is a secluded hill station that attracts tourists because of the different types of trees found here. It is surrounded by pine, oak, and deodar trees which makes it look like heaven on earth. Your Shimla tour is incomplete without visiting incredible Kiarighat, located just 22 km from Shimla and a 7-hour drive from the capital Delhi. The Maharaja’s palace, the British colony of Dagshai, and the famed Apple Cart Inn are all popular tourist sites.
2. Mashobra:
If you are someone who likes to be surrounded by greenery from all directions, Mashobra is the place for you. This place is also called ‘Quieter Shimla’ due to its disconnection from the rest of the fast-moving hill town. It is 13 km from the city itself. A visit here is a liberating experience for every traveler and non-traveler.
3. Kufri:
Kufri means ‘lake’. It is much loved by trekkers as it is a starting point for a trek to Manali. The Best time to visit there is in winter because it gets completely covered by snow and is a treat to watch. Kufri also has amazing and unique tree houses which you can pay to visit or stay. At Kufri Fun World, you may also have a good time.
4. Chail:
Chail is called the winter capital of Patiala. At Kufri Fun World, you may also have a good time. This place offers a unique charm than any other hill station. Chail, along with Shimla and Kufri, forms the Himachal’s Golden triangle. You can do Kufri horse riding, rock climbing, and camping here. You can also pay a visit to Chail Palace, Sidh Baba ka Mandir, and Junga Fort.
5. Naldehra:
Naldehra is famous for its 9-hole golf course and serves as one of the best places to cleanse your body and soul with its flawless beauty. With a distance of 26 Km from Shimla, this place offers Hot water springs at Tattapani, river rafting in Chabba, and trekking the Shaily Peak. After doing all this, you can pay a visit to Kogi Mata Temple.
6. Manali:
Manali is probably one of the most popular hill stations in all of India. Well, for all the right reasons. If you are a person that likes to shop from every destination they visit and explore the markets of the town, it is the place for you. Lush greenery, scenic views, the museum with antiques, temples, lively streets with tourists from all over the world, Manali has got it all.
7. Shojha:
Shojha is located in Banjar valley and is 60 km from Shimla. It is a cute little village amid wilderness and scenery. Therefore, Shojha is known for wood-carved temples and architecture and is untouched by the rest of Shimla. It has a hypnotic waterfall and Serolsar lake. You can also trek to Jalori Pass and explore Raghupur Fort here.
8. Barog:
Barog is not only filled with breathtaking views and mountains, but it also has relics of pre-colonial history and the ancient past. It is emerging as one of the popular hill stations, and that’s why paying a visit here is very easy, be it from the air or railway. It lies on the Kalka-Shimla highway and is a 54 km distance from Shimla. You can explore the culture of this town or go camping in its jungles and don’t forget to pay a visit to Mohan Shakti Temple because it’s a must.
9. Dharamshala:
Apart from having this spiritual experience, you can pay a visit to HPCA Stadium, explore the Tibetan museum, go camping at Lahesh Caves, and much more. Also, don’t forget to do paragliding and try some of the best Tibetan food.
10. Kasauli:
Kasauli is the best hill cantonment town made in the colonial era. It is also popularly known in all of Asia for its old functioning distillery for Scotch Whisky. With just a 70 km distance from Shimla, it is also a seat for the Central Research Institute. It also has monkey point, sunset point, temples, churches, and nature trails worth visiting.
